Recent travel experiences are common topics in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions about an exciting trip you’ve taken recently, with sample answers targeting different band scores.
Similar to describe an exciting experience you have had recently, this topic requires careful preparation and detailed descriptions.
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions include:
- Do you like traveling?
- What kind of places do you prefer to visit?
- How often do you travel?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m absolutely passionate about traveling. I tend to gravitate towards destinations that offer a mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty. I try to take at least two major trips annually, although lately I’ve been focusing on exploring more local destinations.”
IELTS examiner interviewing candidate about travel experiences
Part 2: Cue Card
Your task is to describe an exciting trip you went on recently. You should say:
- Where you went
- Who you went with
- What you did there
- And explain why it was exciting
As highlighted in describe a scenic drive you took recently, providing vivid details enhances your response.
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I went on a trip to Bali last month with my college friends. We stayed in a beautiful resort near Ubud. During our stay, we visited several temples, went hiking in the rice terraces, and tried local food. It was exciting because it was my first time traveling without family, and we had the freedom to plan our own activities.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I recently embarked on an unforgettable journey to the ancient city of Kyoto, Japan, accompanied by my photography enthusiast friend. We immersed ourselves in the local culture by staying in a traditional ryokan and participating in a tea ceremony workshop. What made this trip particularly exhilarating was the perfect blend of historical exploration and modern Japanese culture. We found ourselves wandering through serene bamboo forests at dawn, capturing the interplay of light and shadow, and later discovering hidden gems in the bustling streets of Gion district.”
IELTS candidate enthusiastically describing travel experiences
Part 3: Discussion Questions
For those interested in describe an activity you did in a new place, these follow-up questions are crucial:
Q: How has tourism changed in recent years?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Tourism has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. There’s been a notable shift towards sustainable and experiential travel, with travelers increasingly prioritizing authentic local experiences over typical tourist attractions. Social media has also played a pivotal role in shaping travel decisions, with many destinations gaining popularity through Instagram and TikTok.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
Advanced expressions to enhance your speaking:
- To embark on (phrasal verb) – to begin a journey
- To immerse oneself in (phrase) – to become completely involved in something
- To venture off the beaten path (idiom) – to explore less touristy areas
- Cultural enlightenment (noun phrase) – deep understanding of different cultures
- To broaden one’s horizons (phrase) – to expand one’s knowledge through new experiences
Examiner’s Tips
- Structure your response logically using clear transitions
- Include specific details and personal reactions
- Use a mix of simple and complex grammatical structures
- Maintain natural fluency while incorporating advanced vocabulary
- Express genuine enthusiasm through appropriate intonation
Remember that like describe a time when you experienced something new and exciting, the key is to balance detailed description with personal reflection.
